Limassol Municipality's decision to take direct control of beach-bed and umbrella rentals on beaches within its boundaries has already provided a significant boost to municipal revenues.
According to information obtained by Politis, more than €80,000 has flowed into municipal coffers in less than three months of operation, while operating costs, mainly related to hourly paid staff, amount to approximately €25,000.
The change in beach management had been planned for several years, although the project has not yet been fully developed, with additional beach beds and umbrellas still due to be installed.
At present, 180 sets, consisting of 360 sunbeds and 180 umbrellas, are available across six locations.
Following a municipal council decision, prices remain at €2.50, despite legislative changes that would have allowed an increase.
The newly installed sunbeds are wooden and of high quality, while straw umbrellas have also been added to create a more uniform appearance.
Overall, however, there will be fewer beach beds than in previous years, leaving more free space on the beach in line with the beach management plan.
Upgrade programme continues
Although some delays have been recorded, a broader beach-upgrade programme remains under way, including the installation of new modern showers and the complete renovation of toilets and changing facilities.
The aim is to complete the installation of the showers within the next month.
Usage will be charged at a low rate, with €0.50 for 30 seconds and €1 for one minute, while time limits will be imposed to prevent water wastage.
Measures will also be introduced to prevent the use of shampoo and other products that can create problems on the beach.
In addition, under the lease agreement for the Thalassaki venue, the tenant is required to renovate and maintain the toilet facilities.
Beyond these improvements, hundreds of new trees, mainly eucalyptus and tamarisk, have been planted along Akti Olympion, while additional anti-erosion measures have been implemented.
The municipality's new sand-cleaning machine is also fully operational.
Pollution remains a concern
The biggest challenge facing local authorities remains repeated complaints from bathers about marine pollution.
Although the municipality's two contracted vessels are operating, officials believe the issue is broader and affects both land and sea.
Limassol Municipality continues to press state authorities to take action, while the fragmentation of responsibilities among different agencies is making efforts to address the problem more difficult.
